It is estimated that western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) currently occupies approximately 2.5 million acres of rangeland in northeastern California. This constitutes a ten–fold expansion of juniper range over the past 130 years.

At the same time, independent energy producers found western juniper to be a desirable source of biomass fuel. Interest in siting co–generation power plants in the region is on the rise. The opportunity to utilize juniper for clean, renewable energy production could provide a real economic boost for many local communities.

In addition to the potential benefits derived from utilizing juniper to help meet our energy needs, the environment can benefit as well. An environmentally sensible reduction in current levels of juniper encroachment can improve wildlife habitat, increase water quality and available soil moisture, and result in more productive grazing land. Thus, there is an important opportunity for an economical solution to an environmental problem.

Environmental Constraints: It is critical that prior to initiating any juniper reduction program, an assessment of potential environmental impacts be completed. Not all western juniper stands lend themselves to biomass harvesting. For instance, some stands serve important functions such as providing structural complexity and diversity for wildlife habitat. Additionally, the environmental impacts from inadvisable harvesting in one area can interact with other environmental problems resulting in unanticipated cumulative impacts.

The best way to avoid this type of problem is to complete landscape level planning up front. By taking a holistic look at the juniper–sagebrush steppe ecosystem, this planning will result in an integrated approach to juniper management, matching treatment options to the landscape type. Some areas will be identified where mechanical treatment such as shearing and chipping is appropriate. Hand treatment, prescribed fire, or herbicide use may be the best options elsewhere. Other juniper stands will be identified which should just be left alone.

Landscape-Level Planning: Much of the information needed for this type of planning effort may already be on hand. United States Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) specialists feel that remote sensing data can be combined with soil survey information in such a way so as to provide a holistic picture of juniper management opportunities. Individual juniper management pro-jects can then be assessed by using and tiering off of the overall strategy.

Another advantage of completing a landscape–level plan is the opportunity for wider public involvement with juniper management. It is entirely possible that additional, diverse markets for juniper products will be identified.

Where do we go from here? BLM and USFS personnel are currently working on details of the landscape planning proposal. The resulting strategy would be an integrated, holistic blueprint for juniper management in northeastern California.